In July 2023, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear announced that the Walsh Kokosing Joint Venture had been awarded the design-build contract for the Brent Spence Bridge Corridor Project – a once-in-a-generation opportunity that will transform our region and create tremendous potential for local workers.
In early November, we had the opportunity to visit Walsh Kokosing’s office at historic Longworth Hall as part of our Employer Tour Program.
As they prepare for a multi-year construction effort spanning eight miles of interstate, leaders from Walsh Kokosing and the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) shared both the scale of the work ahead and their commitment to building a strong, inclusive regional workforce.
The Brent Spence Bridge project is expected to generate 700-800 union jobs, as well as additional professional and subcontracted roles. With major hiring beginning in 2026 and early 2027, the project is expected to total roughly 6 million work hours and require a skilled, job-ready labor force across various trades.
Workforce Development
A central theme of the tour was workforce development. Walsh Kokosing and ODOT emphasized how essential it is to prepare residents now for these upcoming opportunities. Marvin Jackson, Business & Workforce Engagement Program Manager, highlighted strong partnerships with programs such as Building Value and Building Futures, which equips individuals with needed skills for careers in the trades. Presenters also underscored the importance of soft skills, emotional intelligence, reliability, and the willingness to work, competencies that unions and contractors value as much as technical training.
Additionally, Tommy Arnold, ODOT Project Manager, discussed ODOT’s focus on long-term workforce challenges, including the need to strengthen the workforce amid growing numbers of retiring workers and the implementation of innovative technologies like connected vehicles, drones, and electronic vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure.
Community Engagement
Community engagement is also a core pillar of the project. Walsh Kokosing has created task forces dedicated to workforce, business development, and community outreach, allowing residents and community partners to shape how the project delivers local benefits.
As the region prepares for this once-in-a-generation investment, the Workforce Innovation Center looks forward to continuing work with Walsh Kokosing, ODOT, and community partners to ensure residents are ready to step into high-quality careers.
For additional information about the Brent Spence Bridge Corridor Project, visit the project’s website. Thanks to Brittany Mention, BWE Consultant, Marvin Jackson, and the entire team at Walsh Kokosing for hosting and coordinating this fantastic tour and presentation with our participants!
By: Daniel Love
Manager, Workforce Innovation Center at the Cincinnati Regional Chamber
Employer Tours Program Lead
